Morning Glory vs Nasturtium: Which Plant Reigns Supreme in the Garden?
What To Know
- Morning glories produce a profusion of vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that add a splash of color to any garden.
- Nasturtium, scientifically known as *Tropaeolum*, is a genus of flowering plants known for their unique, colorful blooms and edible leaves and flowers.
- Nasturtiums come in a variety of colors, from vibrant oranges and yellows to deep reds and pinks, offering diverse options for your garden.
Choosing the perfect flower for your garden can be a delightful but overwhelming task. With so many beautiful options, it’s easy to get lost in the sea of petals and colors. Today, we’ll delve into the captivating world of two popular flowering vines: morning glory and nasturtium. Both offer vibrant blooms and unique characteristics, making them popular choices for gardeners of all levels. But which one is truly the best fit for your garden? Let’s explore the differences and similarities between morning glory vs nasturtium to help you make an informed decision.
Unveiling the Beauty of Morning Glory
Morning glory, scientifically known as *Ipomoea*, is a genus of flowering plants that boasts over 500 species. These climbers are renowned for their trumpet-shaped flowers that open in the morning, earning them their name. Their vibrant colors range from deep blues and purples to delicate pinks and whites, adding a touch of whimsy to any garden.
Advantages of Morning Glory:
- Stunning Blooms: Morning glories produce a profusion of vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that add a splash of color to any garden.
- Fast-Growing Nature: These vines are known for their rapid growth, quickly covering trellises, fences, or other structures.
- Easy to Grow: Morning glories are relatively easy to grow from seed and thrive in various soil types, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Disadvantages of Morning Glory:
- Aggressive Growth: Morning glory can become invasive, quickly spreading and overwhelming other plants.
- Short-Lived Blooms: While morning glories produce many flowers, each individual bloom lasts only a day.
- Potential for Pests: These vines can attract pests such as aphids and whiteflies.
Exploring the Charm of Nasturtium
Nasturtium, scientifically known as *Tropaeolum*, is a genus of flowering plants known for their unique, colorful blooms and edible leaves and flowers. These plants are a versatile addition to any garden, adding a touch of whimsy and practicality.
Advantages of Nasturtium:
- Edible Flowers and Leaves: Nasturtiums are known for their edible flowers and leaves, which add a peppery flavor to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes.
- Attracts Beneficial Insects: Nasturtiums attract pollinators and beneficial insects, helping to control pests in your garden.
- Variety of Colors and Shapes: Nasturtiums come in a variety of colors, from vibrant oranges and yellows to deep reds and pinks, offering diverse options for your garden.
Disadvantages of Nasturtium:
- Slower Growth: Nasturtiums are generally slower-growing than morning glories, taking a bit longer to establish themselves.
- Less Abundant Blooms: While nasturtiums produce beautiful flowers, they may not be as prolific as morning glories.
- Sensitive to Frost: Nasturtiums are sensitive to frost and may die back in cold weather.
Comparing Morning Glory vs Nasturtium: A Head-to-Head Showdown
While both morning glory and nasturtium offer distinct benefits, the best choice for your garden depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of their key differences:
Growth Habit:
- Morning Glory: Rapidly growing vines that can quickly cover large areas.
- Nasturtium: Slower-growing vines that typically reach a smaller size.
Blooming Period:
- Morning Glory: Blooms last only a day, but plants produce many flowers throughout the season.
- Nasturtium: Blooms last longer than morning glory flowers, but plants may not produce as many flowers.
Edible Qualities:
- Morning Glory: Flowers and leaves are not edible.
- Nasturtium: Flowers and leaves are edible and add a peppery flavor to dishes.
Attracting Beneficial Insects:
- Morning Glory: Can attract some beneficial insects, but not as many as nasturtiums.
- Nasturtium: Attracts a wide range of pollinators and beneficial insects, helping to control pests.
Overall:
- Morning Glory: Best for covering large areas quickly with vibrant, short-lived blooms.
- Nasturtium: Best for adding a touch of edible beauty and attracting beneficial insects to your garden.
Beyond the Bloom: Exploring Other Uses
Both morning glory and nasturtium offer more than just visual appeal. Their versatility extends beyond the garden, opening up a world of possibilities:
- Morning Glory:
- Medicinal Uses: Some morning glory species have been used in traditional medicine for their diuretic and laxative properties.
- Crafts and Decoration: Dried morning glory seeds can be used in crafts and decorations.
- Nasturtium:
- Culinary Delights: Edible flowers and leaves can be used in salads, sandwiches, and other dishes, adding a unique peppery flavor.
- Natural Dyes: Nasturtium petals can be used to create natural dyes for fabrics and other materials.
Choosing the Right Vine for Your Garden
Ultimately, the decision of whether to choose morning glory or nasturtium comes down to your personal preferences and garden needs. Consider the following factors when making your choice:
- Space: Do you have a large area to cover or prefer a smaller, more manageable vine?
- Growth Rate: Do you want a vine that grows quickly or one that takes a bit longer to establish?
- Bloom Duration: Do you prefer short-lived but abundant flowers or longer-lasting, less numerous blooms?
- Edible Qualities: Do you want a vine that offers edible flowers and leaves?
- Pest Control: Do you want a vine that attracts beneficial insects to help control pests in your garden?
The Final Word: A Garden Filled with Beauty and Flavor
Both morning glory and nasturtium offer unique beauty and charm to any garden. Morning glory provides a burst of vibrant color with its abundant, trumpet-shaped flowers, while nasturtium adds a touch of edible whimsy with its colorful blooms and peppery leaves. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect vine to enhance your garden’s beauty and add a touch of magic to your outdoor space.
Quick Answers to Your FAQs
Q: Are morning glories poisonous?
A: While some morning glory species contain psychoactive compounds, most are not considered poisonous. However, it’s important to note that certain species can be toxic to animals. It’s always best to research the specific species you’re growing and take precautions if you have pets or children.
Q: Can I eat nasturtium flowers and leaves?
A: Yes, nasturtium flowers and leaves are edible and add a peppery flavor to salads, sandwiches, and other dishes. However, it’s important to ensure that the plants haven‘t been treated with pesticides or herbicides before consuming them.
Q: How do I start morning glory and nasturtium from seed?
A: Both morning glory and nasturtium can be easily started from seed. Sow seeds directly into the ground after the last frost or start them indoors a few weeks before the last frost.
Q: How do I prevent morning glory from becoming invasive?
A: To prevent morning glory from becoming invasive, it’s important to deadhead spent flowers before they go to seed. You can also consider planting morning glory in containers to limit its spread.
Q: What are some companion plants for nasturtium?
A: Nasturtium pairs well with many other garden plants, including tomatoes, beans, and carrots. They attract beneficial insects that can help control pests affecting these plants.